A temporary pavement licensing regime that was introduced to enable al fresco dining at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic has been extended by the Government.

Initially put in place via the Business and Planning Act 2020, the measure was intended to help hospitality businesses operate during the pandemic by making it quicker, easier and cheaper to get a licence to serve food and drink on pavements and pedestrianised roads.

The extension will continue until the changes are made permanent in the spring, as part of the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill.

Further information can be found on the GOV.UK website.